This week in our Winterproofing Series, following on from last week's blog, now that your roof has been successfully repaired, we can look at ways to improve energy efficiency through insulation. Although the forecast predicts a slightly warmer weekend coming up, the temperatures will soon drop again!
Many historic buildings in the UK face the challenge of staying warm and cozy. The traditional construction methods used often lack the insulation that is necessary to keep heat in and cold out.
This can lead to high heating bills and uncomfortable living conditions.
Source: Historic England
Insulating historic buildings is not just about comfort; it can also help to preserve them for future generations. Heat and moisture can damage the structural integrity of buildings, and insulation can help to prevent these problems. Additionally, insulating buildings can make them more energy-efficient, which can reduce their carbon footprint.
Types of Insulation
Choosing a type of insulation will be determined by the type of roof as certain materials are only able to be installed on certain roof types only.
The most appropriate materials for buildings from traditional construction are natural fibre-based insulation such as sheep’s wool, wood, and hemp fibre insulation as they are hygroscopic (they can absorb but also release excess moisture), they retain their insulation qualities even when damp and are non-hazardous fibres.
In addition to these, the following are popular insulation materials:
Cellulose: Cellulose is a natural material that is made from recycled paper. It is a good insulator and is relatively inexpensive, however its performance can be compromised if it comes into contact with moisture.
Source: TheSpruce
Rockwool: Rockwool is a mineral wool that is made from volcanic rocks. It is a good insulator and is also fire resistant.
Source: InsulationExpress
Thermafleece: technically, this falls under the sheep's wool category, but the design of Thermafleece's products in particular, make them very versitile for older structures as they're easy to install between and over joists and ideal for floors and lofts.
Source: Thermafleece
When to Insulate Historic Buildings
The best time to insulate a historic building is when there is no need to heat or cool it. This is usually in the spring or fall. However, it is also possible to insulate buildings in the winter and summer months, as long as the work is done carefully.
How to Insulate Historic Buildings
Insulating a historic building requires careful planning and execution. It is important to use materials that are compatible with the existing construction and to follow the guidelines set by the local planning authority.
The Benefits of Insulating Historic Buildings
Insulating historic buildings has many benefits, including:
Final thoughts
Insulating historic buildings is a worthwhile investment that can save money, improve comfort, and preserve our heritage. Before going ahead with insulating your historic building, you must contact your local planning authority to obtain planning permission.
Ensure you select materials that are compatible with the existing construction and use the services of a professional installer who has experience with historic buildings.
For more information on insulating historic buildings, visit: